Manchester United and Leeds United get their Premier League season for 2021-22 underway on Saturday, as the two great rivals meet at Old Trafford on the opening day of the season for the first time since 1970. However, can the Red Devils get off to the perfect start in front of their home fans?
Manchester United vs Leeds United Schedule
- When: Saturday, 14th August
- Where: Old Trafford
- How To Watch: NBC
Manchester United vs Leeds United Odds
| Team | Odds |
|---|---|
| Manchester United | -185 |
| Draw | +355 |
| Leeds United | +500 |
| Total Goals | Odds |
|---|---|
| Over 3.0 | +100 |
| Under 3.0 | -120 |
Manchester United vs Leeds United Preview
United Have High Hopes
The 2020-21 season was ultimately a disappointment, which from a United standpoint was disappointment because there was certain progression made. However, the lasting memory of the season will be the Red Devils being beaten in the Europa League final on penalties by Villarreal. Still, last season had some very big highs for United, including a 6-2 win over Leeds at Old Trafford. But, a first trophy under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains missing.
The club have been busy over the summer to rectify the mistakes, with the addition of Jadon Sancho certainly increasing United’s attacking outlet. However, it is the signing of Raphael Varane that could make the difference. United are set to sign the Real Madrid defender, and he could be the perfect partner for Harry Maguire to mount a title challenge. Home form will be key for United, as they were far too inconsistent last season. On the road however, they were excellent, as they remained unbeaten throughout the campaign.
Leeds Looking To Build
Leeds United would have been delighted with their first season back in the Premier League. There were never any worries of a relegation battle, and the club could have been knocking on the door for the European spaces should they have been more consistent at pivotal stages of the season. Leeds were undeniably one of the most exciting teams to watch last season, and that will certainly be the case once again this term.
However, Marcelo Bielsa will be keen to ensure that they aren’t as vulnerable to counter-attacks, which could prove the difference between just a top half finish and a challenge for a European spot this term. Patrick Bamford will once again be the integral player for Leeds, as the Englishman scored 17 goals in 38 games last season. A repeat of that performance could see him knocking on the door for an England call-up.
Recent Meetings
United won this fixture 6-2 last season, which ensured that Leeds United’s winless run at Old Trafford in the league was extended to 16. However, Leeds won the last meeting between the sides at Old Trafford on the opening day of the season in 1970.
Manchester United vs Leeds United Pick
This could be the game of the weekend in the Premier League, as the two rivals both look to get off to the perfect start. However, the preference would be for the hosts, as a big season for Solskjaer’s side could lie ahead.
